Noel Whelan reacts to Pascal Struijk’s display in Leeds win

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Noel Whelan has told BBC Radio Leeds (broadcast on 19/7; 16:00) that he thought that Pascal Struijk produced a fantastic performance as Leeds United celebrated their promotion with a 3-1 win at Derby County.

Marcelo Bielsa made seven changes for the trip to Pride Park. Struijk came into the side having impressed in the crucial 1-0 win over Barnsley on Thursday.

The Dutchman was lauded by the supporters for his Elland Road display. And he stepped up once again against the Rams as Leeds came from behind to secure another victory.

He once again looked confident on the ball, and seemed to read the game superbly. And following the victory, Whelan suggested that he was one of the stand outs.

“I’ve got to say Struijk had a fantastic game,” he told BBC Radio Leeds. “I’ve just seen him walking off now with Kalvin Phillips, again big, strong player.

“Not seen too much of him. Grew into the game against Barnsley under difficult circumstances. I think the nerves crept into the whole team that evening. It was just about grinding it out. But he was excellent. Really strong in that position.”

TBR View: Struijk laying down marker for next season

Struijk has surely shown over the last two games that he has a very bright future ahead of him. His performances have been particularly impressive considering that he has predominantly played as a centre-back for the under-23s.

It may appear to be a gamble to put a lot of faith in Struijk at this stage of his career. But the youngster has stood up to the last two tests.

And it will be very telling about what Bielsa thinks if Struijk takes a fairly important role in the boss’ plans in the Premier League next season.